Eric R Castillo, PhD

My research combines modeling, experiments, fossils, and field studies of modern populations to study human evolutionary anatomy and physiology. I am particularly interested in using an evolutionary perspective to understand how recent changes in human behavior (such as reduced physical activity) may be linked to variations in disease prevalence.

A core focus of my work involves lumbar lordosis (curvature of the lower back). Why did humans evolve a curved lower back? What factors predict lower back posture, and what are the functional consequences of lordosis? To answer these questions, this area of research investigates the relationship between lower back posture, spine function, and the implications for modern health.